The Creation of Furniture Design in Contemporary Cultural Context: A Case Study of lu Mien Ethnic Legends, Ban Pang Prik, Pong District, Phayao Province

Abstract

This research article aims to achieve the following objectives: 1) to study, analyze, and interpret the legend of ‘Pan Hu’ through a process of transforming the cultural semiotics of the Iu Mien ethnic group into a contemporary furniture design language; 2) to study and collect traditional craftsmanship for application in creative work; and 3) to create contemporary furniture prototypes to address modern lifestyles. This study is conducted to transcend the limitations imposed by ‘Cultural Freezing,’ which causes traditional identity and wisdom to become disconnected from contemporary social contexts. Consequently, this research serves as a tool to transform abstract signs into a ‘Living Heritage’ through concrete design, thereby distinctly elevating creative economic value. study utilizes a qualitative research methodology. The purposive sample consists of experts in Iu Mien culture and history, groups of traditional craftsmen, and local sages within the Ban Mai Pang Ka area, Pong District, Phayao Province. Research instruments used for data collection comprise semi-structured interviews and observations. The gathered data were subsequently analyzed using content analysis and design synthesis. The research findings: 1) The analysis and interpretation of the Pan Hu legend led to the synthesis of a modular structure, extracting criteria from the textile embroidery grid system to divide the piece into 12 distinct sub-modules, which serve as symbolic representations of the 12 Iu Mien clans; 2) The integration of traditional craftsmanship with migration logic resulted in the development of an interlocking mechanism for flat-pack furniture, addressing space constraints in contemporary contexts; and 3) The furniture prototypes successfully convey aesthetics through hidden structural codes, creating an interactive assembly experience that stimulates concentration and mindfulness, ultimately enabling users to access a personal space of tranquility. This body of knowledge presents a novel approach for the design industry to transform ethnic heritage into a living legacy relevant to modern life. Furthermore, it generates a positive impact on the community by sustaining traditional wisdom beyond cultural stagnation and elevating creative economic value through a sustainable redefinition of cultural design.